World-renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage, Qatar abodes some stunning hidden gems. This peninsular Arab country presents a fetching combination of historical convention and novelty that’s hard to find elsewhere. Additionally, with the continuous rise in the number of visitors every year, the country has become one hot spot destination. And since the Gulf country is hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, it expects to bring in 1.5 million visitors.
However, to truly explore a country, you need to visit destinations that hold the essence of its culture, history, and treasures. Brimming with the world’s finest attractions, Qatar is home to rare gems that are unexplored. These hidden gems hold such uniqueness and awe-inspiring beauty that can help expand your understanding of the beautiful country. So, if Qatar is on your bucket list this year, we recommend to you these hidden gem attractions that you should not miss out on.
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Top 5 hidden gems in Qatar worth visiting
1. Al Karaana Lagoon
Al Karaan Lagoon in Doha
The serene and peaceful Al Karaana Lagoon in Doha is surrounded by clear water and lots of greenery. Located 60 kilometers southwest of Doha, the lagoon once housed 10 separate lagoons. The lagoon used to receive 6000 cubic meters of industrial wastewater every day, causing contamination in most areas. To reclaim and rehabilitate the lagoon, a project started on 16 November 2019. The project aimed to re-establish the natural area and ensure the protection of the environment.
Today, the man-made lagoon is unlike any other place in Qatar, which will surely leave you stunned with its beauty. Besides that, the wildlife of different species of birds, fish, frogs, local wildlife, and growing mangroves hold their untouched habitat in this artificial lagoon. It’s an off-beat hidden gem place; a beautiful oasis worth visiting on your visit to Qatar.
2. The Zakreet Beach
The Zekreet Beach
If you are looking for a secluded off-center place to spend some quality time with your loved ones, then Zakreet beach is the perfect place. Located only a short distance from Doha, the capital city, Zekreet Beach is one of the well-known holiday destinations. The beach which is also known as Ras Abrouq Beach or the Bir Zekreet is secluded and isolated, adorned with thick white sand and rock formation. It is situated close to civilization, yet isolated all year round making it a perfect place to escape the crowd. The cluster of dunes, bays, coves, and limestone gravel makes the landscape serene and unique.
The beach also contains a surreal beauty and calm vibes ideal to spend a leisurely time. Not only this, but many other attractions like the film village are close to the beach. So, if you want to visit a magnificent beach to admire the natural beauty, undiscovered by the masses, then Zekreet is amongst Qatar’s most sought-after hidden gems. If you are a beach lover, be sure to check out the best beaches in Qatar.
3. Musfur Sinkhole
Musfur Sinkhole Qatar
The Musfur Sinkhole is a 16 ft deep sinkhole with an opening of about 40 feet. This hidden gem is situated west of Doha, straight off Salway Road, surrounded by a wire mesh fence which probably attracts visitors. It is a great spot to visit for a day trip making it an ideal destination for some underground exploration. The entrance of the sinkhole is enclosed by a fence for security. You could easily reach its sandy depths but should be vigilant as the passage is steep and rugged. For precautionary measures, hiking boots are a must when exploring.
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The light seeping from the sinkhole’s entrance gradually grows smaller as you escalate down. The temperature is relatively low towards the bottom, offering an escape from the scorching desert heat. While vegetation is mostly absent inside, you will find various migratory birds and their nest built on the crevices of the rock. The Musfur Sinkhole is one of the most sought-after natural wonders, so make sure to visit this unexplored cave.
4. The Oxygen Park
Oxygen Park in Qatar
Designed to supply health and well-being in a balmy desert environment, Oxygen Pak is an antidote to help people to get back to nature. The park which is located in Doha, Qatar, features mesmerizing views making it a potential top Doha attraction. As Oxygen Park is still unknown to the masses, it is a hidden gem that’s yet to become renowned. With an area of 13,000 square meters, the park accommodates various sporting activities.
Providing an open space to exercise, relax and play, the park has been created keeping the local community in mind. Additionally, the inspiration behind the park was the wind-eroded rocks and the desert’s land formation. Besides that, the park is embedded with training grounds, cooling tunnel segments, and steep hills. The park also has a stunning flower tunnel. The nighttime lighting adds a touch of beauty to the attractive setting of the park. The floating balloon lights above the subterranean grounds are a true delight to the visitors. Many cool areas and shades surround the park which makes it an ideal place to visit during the hot days in Doha.
Related article: 7 great weekend getaways from Doha that are completely worth the trip
5. The Sheikh Faisal Museum
The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, Qatar
Established in 1998 at Al Samriya Farm, the Sheikh Faisal Museum is another hidden gem worth paying a visit. It is one of the most unique museums in the Middle East, housing over 30,000 objects. The items are from the private collection of Sheikh Faisal, developed over five decades. The artifacts emboss four main themes: Qatar heritage, Islamic art, vehicles and coins, and currency. The museum aims to preserve cultural heritage and enhance knowledge internationally through exhibitions and educational programs. One of the known facts about the museum is that it’s the only private museum in the country.
The displayed items include swords, a Holy Quran room, a Qatari house, antique vehicles, a medical room, etc. The place will leave you awestruck as it builds gripping pathways from one room to another. It is a highly recommended place to visit if you want to gain more knowledge and insights into the local history of Qatar. To reach the place, you need to rent a car as it’s a fair distance away from Doha. Since the museum is a private one, there is an entrance fee of 50 QAR per person. You’ll also find a café to take a break and a gift shop to buy souvenirs for your close ones.
Wrapping up
These are some of the hidden gems of Qatar worth visiting when exploring Qatar. There are some of the basic things that you should keep in mind when visiting these places. Make sure to wear comfortable and light clothing and footwear. In places like the Musfur Sinkhole and Al, Kaarana Lagoon remember to pack water, snacks, and torchlight as there are no shops nearby. Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the heat of the sun. Lastly, avoid wandering to unknown places.
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